Lawrence Emanuel Starita, Jr.

Lawrence “Skip” Emanuel Starita Jr., at the age of 82, quietly departed this life on Sunday, August 30, 2026, in his cherished hometown of Bay St. Louis, MS.

Skip was born on March 23, 1944, in Bay St. Louis to Lawrence “Skeet” and Aleciadell “Dell” Bennett Starita, who were also lifelong residents of Hancock County. His passions included fishing, hunting, cooking, and spending quality time with his family and friends, and he loved bringing laughter to those around him. He had a gift for making friends and was always eager to brighten someone's day. His kind-hearted nature truly knew no bounds!

In the now larger Bay St. Louis, where everyone was once connected, Skip was an unforgettable character, noted for his joy and antics over the years. The joyful moments from family gatherings will forever be held dear. His absence will be profoundly felt.

His legacy lives on through his children: Patricia and her husband Mike Slavens, Gary Starita, his late daughter Laura Bosarge, and Sharon Polk. He adored his grandchildren Melody, Corley, Leinora, Leilani, Priscilla, James, Sharon, and Roxanne; as well as his great-grandchildren Bella, Kylie, Wolf, Noah, Hunter, Keoni, Moana, Autumn, Bo, Lillybelle, Rebel, PJ, Robert, and Kadence, cherishing each moment he spent with them. His siblings were Dell Marie Thompson (Gary), Mike Starita (Becky), his late brother Benny Starita, Randy Starita (Gayle), Cathy Starita, and Keith Starita (Elsie).

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

The family has entrusted arrangements to Edmond Fahey Funeral Home in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.